A town in Texas wants to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey…unless they don’t like Israel. Cenk Uygur, the host of The Young Turks, tells you why Texas isn’t helping those boycotting Israel. Tell us what you think in the comment section below. Join TYT: goo.gl/v8E64M

“Months later, Texans are still cleaning up in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, and one local muncipality has the American Civil Liberties Union crying foul. The city of Dickinson, Texas released on Monday a new application for relief funds to rebuild homes and businesses. But it includes wording in which applicants promise not to boycott Israel:

Verification not to Boycott Israel. By executing this Agreement below, the Applicant verifies that the Applicant: (1) does not boycott Israel; and (2) will not boycott Israel during the term of this Agreement.

Clearly unconstitutional, argued the ACLU.

“The First Amendment protects Americans’ right to boycott, and the government cannot condition hurricane relief or any other public benefit on a commitment to refrain from protected political expression,” said ACLU of Texas Legal Director Andre Segura in a statement. “Dickinson’s requirement is an egregious violation of the First Amendment, reminiscent of McCarthy-era loyalty oaths requiring Americans to disavow membership in the Communist party and other forms of ‘subversive’ activity.”

The city attorney of Dickinson said they were just following the law, according to KTRK. Gov. Greg Abbott signed that statute in May. It stops Texas from doing business with companies involved in the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions movement against Israel over the nation’s treatment of Palestinians.”

Download audio and video of the full two hour show on-demand + the members-only post game show by becoming a member at goo.gl/v8E64M. Your membership supports the day to day operations and is vital for our continued success and growth.

Young Turk (n), 1. Young progressive or insurgent member of an institution, movement, or political party. 2. A young person who rebels against authority or societal expectations.(American Heritage Dictionary)